Computer Science

Computer science education has been defined as the study of computers, algorithmic processes, and computer programming and coding, including their principles, their hardware and software designs, their applications, and their impact on society (22-97-102, C.R.S.).

"We want students to understand what a computer can do, what a human can do, and why that’s different." - Mark Guzdial, Prof. of Computing, Georgia Tech

Important Announcements

Computer Science Teacher Education (CSEd) Grant Program

The Computer Science Grants for Teachers Program which funded approximately $440,000 in 2018 will continue in the 2018-19 fiscal year pursuant to CCR 301-100. Senate Bill 17-296, the Colorado Computer Science Teacher Education Grant Program was passed by the Colorado Legislature during the 2017 legislative session and the appropriation increased by $500,000 (HB 18-1322). Funds will be distributed to local education providers (LEA's), including school districts, BOCES, and district charter schools or Institute Charter Schools for K-12 computer science teacher professional development. Approximately $900,000 is available for the 2018-19 school year for computer science teacher professional development. Championed by the State Board of Education, $500,000 for the 2018-19 fiscal year is intended for elementary regional computer science teacher professional development. Tentatively, the grant application materials will be available from September 10 to October 30, 2018. Please check back on this website for more details in mid-August.

Elementary Regional Professional Development

If you would like information or are interested in providing or hosting regional professional development for elementary computer science teachers, please contact Christine Liebe at liebe_c@cde.state.co.us or call 303-957-6565.

2018 Grant Awards

The CSEd grant for 2017-18 had two grant cycles to expend all grant funds. Some of the LEA's in the first grant cycle applied for and were granted additional funds.

Computer Science Standards

During the 2016 legislative session, the Colorado General Assembly passed House Bill 16-1198 requiring CDE to develop voluntary academic standards for computer science for secondary students. The Colorado State Board of Education approved the standards on 4/11/18. Thank you and congratulations to the volunteer Computer Science Standards Committee.

In May, 2018 district leaders and representatives from higher education met to discuss K-8 Computer Science standards. Their recommendation to use the national Computer Science Teachers Association standards can be found below.

Webinars

During the school year, CDE will host several webinars each month regarding a variety of computer science topics. Please check back in August to see the webinar schedule. One of the webinars from the 2017-18 school year is available as a recording below.

Recordings

AP Computer Science. Join Chuck Powell, AP Computer Science A/Principles and AP Physics teacher at Green Mountain High School in Lakewood, Colorado and president of the Colorado Computer Science Teacher Education Association to discuss all aspects of teaching AP computer science courses. Sean Wybrant, computer science teacher who focuses on game-based instruction and Colorado Teacher of the Year will also be on the call.

Additional Computer Science Education Resources

The following resources are examples of tools districts may find helpful in implementing computer science education, including course codes, samples of approved digital tools, and parent information regarding computer science.

Digital literacy is the knowledge, skills, and behaviors involving the effective use of digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktop PCs for purposes of communication, expression, collaboration and advocacy.

Information technology is the technology involving the development, maintenance, and use of computer systems, software, and networks for the processing and distribution of data.

EUpdates 2018

EUpdats are monthly Computer Science Education newsletters featuring Colorado computer science educational events, curriculum resources, and professional development opportunities. Please email Christine Liebe with announcements or if you would like to be added to the Colorado K-12 Computer Science Education listserv.

PLC Bytes

PLC Bytes, stand for Professional Learning Communities "Bytes' or research-based presentations that educators can use for discussions. The following PLC Byte features differentiation strategies specifically for computer science educators.